AHMEDABAD, India: More than 200 people were killed when an Air India plane bound for London with 242 people on board crashed minutes after taking off fromthe western city of Ahmedabad on Thursday, authorities said, in the world's worst aviation disaster in a decade.
The plane came down in a residential area, crashing on to a medical college hostel outside the airport during lunch hour. It was headed for Gatwick Airport, south of the British capital.
What Happened?
Air India Flight AI 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, registration VT-ANB, crashed on June 12, 2025 just after it took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. The plane was on-route to Gatwick Airport in London, carrying 242 souls including 217 adults, 11 children and 2 pilots. The aircraft impacted a residential neighbourhood near Meghani Nagar, hitting a doctors' hostel and exploding into a giant fireball.
Who Was Aboard & Who Died?
Among the passengers were 169 Indians, 53 British citizens, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian. The pilot was Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, First Officer Clive Kundar was sitting in the co-pilot seat. Early recovery efforts have been able to identify about 30 bodies and it is feared that over 130 people died and many more than that were injured. More details to uncover soon.
When & Where Did The Crash Occur?
The crash occurred on June 12 just after 13:38 IST (08:08 UTC) as the aircraft was departing runway 23. The aircraft lost contact only a small distance from the runway, at just 625 ft after issuing a Mayday. The enormous explosion and billowing smoke quickly engulfed the nearby residential enclave of Meghani Nagar.
Why & How Behind The Crash?
The cause is under investigation. The initial reports indicate gear was still extended, flaps were in transit, weather was clear, and fuel load was high - all things under investigation. The accidents occurred during abort, both AAIB and DGCA and of course, Boeing have initiated investigations of the crash dynamics.
Ahmedabad Police issues a list of 25 injured in plane crash in Ahmedabad
In India Reaction
The crash has triggered an outpouring of national grief, with social media flooded by candle emojis, black profile photos, and emotional posts from across the globe.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted about the incident:
"The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected.”
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi called the incident "heartbreaking".
Global Reactions
World leaders expressed deep sorrow, especially since 53 British nationals were among those on board. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the images "devastating" and offered his condolences on X. Britain’s High Commission in Delhi confirmed they are working closely with Indian authorities. Foreign Secretary David Lammy also shared his condolences and support.
Leaders from France, Russia, the European Commission, Israel, and Ukraine also expressed solidarity, grief, and support for India. Ursula von der Leyen said, “Europe stands with you and the people of India in this moment of sorrow.”
In response, India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation has set up an Operational Control Room to coordinate information and provide real-time updates to families and officials.
On-ground Scene
The scene left at the crash site is a wasteland of twisted metal, burnt belongings, and muffled cries. The doctor's hostel that bore the brunt of the crash is unrecognizable. Witnesses recall stricken children, screaming out from windows and elderly residents hurriedly pouring buckets of water on raging flames .
Helplines & Assistance
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has set up an Operational Control Room to coordinate all information related to the incident:
📞 011-24610843 | 9650391859
Ahmedabad City Police has also issued a dedicated emergency number for police assistance and updates on the crash:
📞 079-25620359
Counsellors, translators, and relief officers are stationed to support distressed families and coordinate communication.
Air India Helpline for the crash in Ahmedabad
Air India has issued helpline/hotline numbers for emergency queries regarding the crash. In a X post they said, "In addition to the dedicated passenger hotline number 1800 5691 444, we have added another hotline number for foreign nationals +91 8062779200."
Next Steps?
A joint team of AAIB (UK), DGCA (India), and Boeing will examine the black box, crash dynamics, and structural failures. Legal teams are also preparing for possible compensation claims.
As search and rescue continues throughout the night, India as a nation stands still today; praying, weeping, and hoping that in this unclear smoke, stories of survival still exist. In a world divided through politics - grief has united all of us.